FAQS

Why do I have to pay to visit St Paul's Cathedral?

St Paul's Cathedral never charges people who want to worship. Those attending our services do so at no cost. People seeking a place to be quiet and pray are admitted to the St Dunstan's Chapel free of charge. Admission on Sundays for all services is of course free and there is no sightseeing.

St Paul's receives little regular or significant funding from the Crown, Church or the State. We therefore rely on the income generated by tourism to allow the building to continue to function as a centre for Christian worship, as well as to cover general maintenance and repair work.

Most of our visitors, on understanding this, are only too happy to help support a place that is not only a centre for spiritual pilgrimage but also a part of our nation's heritage. The Dean and Chapter have the responsibility for caring for St Paul's both as a living and active church, but also as an heritage asset.

Are there any areas I can visit for free?

Yes, St Dunstan's chapel is open throughout the day for those who wish to sit quietly and say a prayer. Services are also free to attend.

What time do services take place?

Monday to Saturday

Mattins – 0730

Eucharist – 0800

Eucharist – 1230

Evensong – 1700

Sunday

Holy Communion – 0800

Choral Mattins – 1015

Sung Eucharist – 1130

Choral Evensong – 1515

Evening service 1800

These services can occasionally be subject to change. Please check the Cathedral diary on the left-hand side for details.

Can I reserve seats in the Quire for Evensong?

Weekday Evensong is usually sung in the Quire and at most of these services members of the public are invited to sit in the Quire for the duration of the service, however seats are allocated on a first come first served basis. If you would like to be seated in the Quire we suggest you arrive at least 30 minutes before the service. There is disabled access to the Quire and if you require this please contact a Virger or Steward.

Why am I not allowed to take photographs in the cathedral?

Even outside of service times St Paul's is a place where visitors can seek solace and comfort. Photography can be very distracting, especially when you take into consideration the large number of visitors that come into the building on a daily basis.

In the past St Paul's has, as an experiment, relaxed the photography rule. However, the combination of camera flashes and groups queuing up to pose for photographs under the dome led to the conclusion that allowing photography would greatly detract from the spiritual life of the Cathedral.

Are there any tours available?

Yes, supertours. A guided tour of the cathedral lasting between 1.5 and 2 hours. Supertours cost £3.00 for adults, concessions £2.50 and children under 16 £1.00. Click here for more information. For those who wish to tour the Cathedral at their leisure, audio guides are available.

Audio guide: How much is an audio guide of St Paul's?

Adults £4.00 Concessions £3.50

Audio guide: How long does it take?

45 – 90 minutes

Audio guide: What languages is the guide available in?

English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Russian, Chinese and Japanese.

Is there an entrance for wheelchair users?

Yes, via the South Churchyard. Visitors with mobility issues are also able to use the lift to travel between to Cathedral floor and the Crypt. Click here for more information. 

Who can get married at St Paul's Cathedral?

Only members of the Order of St Michael and St George, the Order of the British Empire, holders of the British Empire Medal, and members of the Imperial Society of Knights Bachelor and their children. Click here for more information.